Executive Session, Work Session, Community Input Session & Business Meeting

Summary: BOARD MEMBERS:
Mrs. Deirdre P. Pierce, Board Chair
Ms. Allyson Gevertz, Vice Chair
Mr. Andrew B. Ziffer
Ms. Whitney McGinniss
Tiffany Hogan, Ph.D.
Mr. Diijon DaCosta, Sr.
Mr. Awet Eyasu

Dr. Devon Q. Horton, Superintendent

Summary: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education adopt the July 14, 2025 work session and business meeting agenda.

Motion by: ________________
Seconded by: _____________
Vote: ______________

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Devon Q. Horton, Superintendent

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Allyson Gevertz, Vice Chair, District 4

Summary: Presented by: Tiffany Hogan, Ph.D., Board Member, District 5

Summary: Presented by: Triscilla Weaver, Ph.D., Chief of Access & Opportunity, Division of Access & Opportunity
Ms. Sarita Smith, Executive Director of Student Assignment, Division of Access & Opportunity

Request: Copy and Paste the link below to view the Student Assignment Progress Report Update Episode 4.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqp-piURRYc

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676-1475

Summary: Presented by: Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts (DOAA)

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Charlene Fitzpatrick, CEO & Managing Member IT Business Experts / H3C Human Capital Consultants Consortium (IBEX)

Contact: Mrs. Tasha Davis Mills, Chief Human Resources Officer, Division of Human Resources, 678.676.1200.

Summary: Presented by: Ms. DeeDee Kharing, SFO, Senior Strategy Consultant, Center for Effective School Operations

Contact: Mr. Joel Thibodeaux, Executive Director of Internal Audits, Chief of Staff Division, 678-676-0740

Summary: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education adjourn the July 14, 2025 executive session and convene the work session and business meeting.

Motion by: _____________
Seconded by: _______________
Vote: _____________

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Andrew B. Ziffer, Board Member, District 1

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the name change for the new middle and high school at the Sequoyah site to Sequoyah Middle School and Sequoyah High School.

Details: The committee, led by Board member Mr. Andrew B. Ziffer, was composed of the required Board members and District and School leaders. Then, parents, a student, and a community member were added to make a total of 13 members.

The committee met on the following dates:
March 24. 2025
April 28, 2025*
May 13, 2025
June 10, 2025

*Public input meeting was April 28, 2025

Contact: Mrs. Michelle Dillard. Chief of Schools, Division of Schools & Leadership, 678.676.0542
Dr. Thomas Glanton, Area Superintendent for High School, Division of Schools & Leadership, 678.676.0329
Mr. Andrew B. Ziffer, Board Member 678.676,0722

Effective: Upon Board Approval, the High School Area Superintendent will work with appropriate divisions to change the school's name.

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Andrew B. Ziffer, Board Member, District 1

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the renaming of the mascot at the New Middle & High Schools at the Sequoyah Site to the Wolves. The middle school and high school mascot colors will be green and silver.

Details: The committee, led by Board member Mr. Ziffer, was composed of the required Board members and District and School leaders. Then, parents, a student, and a community member were added to make a total of 13 members.

The committee met on the following dates:
March 24. 2025
April 28, 2025*
May 13, 2025
June 10, 2025

*Public input meeting was April 28, 2025

Financial impact: Areas impacted by the mascot renaming included, but not limited to athletics, band uniforms, murals, and miscellaneous will be reflected in the construction of Sequoyah Middle and High School. Items such as letterhead and stationery are estimated be a small cost that could be absorbed by the local school budget.

Contact: Mr. Andrew B. Ziffer, Board Member, District 1, 678-676-0722
Dr. Thomas Glanton, Area Superintendent for High Schools, Division of Schools & Leadership, 678-676-1079

Effective: Upon Board Approval, the High School Area Superintendent will work with appropriate divisions for the renaming of the mascot.

Status: Upon Board Approval

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Deirdre P. Pierce, Board Chair

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education (“the Board”) approve:

The use of the CINTAS Uniform Agreement through the Omnia Cooperative Agreement Contract No. 222886 for the rental of uniforms for Maintenance, Fleet, and AIC custodial staff for an additional one (1) year term effective August 15, 2025, through August 14, 2026, not to exceed amount of $400,000.


This is the second of three (#2 of 3), contract renewals for Contract #222886.


An increase in the spend limit of Contract No. 222886 for the current renewal (#1), expiring August 14, 2025, in the not- to- exceed amount of $25,000.

Details: DeKalb County School District Facilities and Maintenance Operations implemented staff uniforms in July 2013 with CINTAS Corporation using their uniform agreement established through U.S. Communities.

Contract No. 222886 is through the City of Tucson solicitation cooperative agreement with OMNIA Corporation; from this solicitation CINTAS Corporation No. 2 was an awardee. The Board approved the use of this cooperative agreement through the DCSD Supplemental Agreement with Cintas Corporation No. 2 to provide uniforms for Maintenance, Fleet, and AIC custodial staff dated March 13, 2023.

This is the second of three (#2 of 3), one (1) year renewal options.

Cintas Corporation No. 2 is located at 23345 N. 23rd Ave., Ste 170, Phoenix, AZ 85027

Financial impact: The financial impact of these services is a not to exceed amount of $400,000 through August 2026 for the contract renewal and $25,000 for the contract spend limit increase and will be allocated from the General Fund Budget. Supplies: (100.2600.561000.00011.7520.9990.8013.040.0000)

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1470
Mr. Bobby Moncrief, Director of Facilities, Division of Operations, 678.676.1478

Effective: August 15, 2025

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education (“the Board”) approve DAF Concrete, Inc. as vendor for General Contractor Services for the Napolean B. Cobb Stadium Asphalt Paving- Bus Parking project for a not to exceed amount of $184,450 to install asphalt for bus parking at the eastern property line.

Details: The current bus parking area is composed of crush and run surfacing. Also referred to as Crusher Run or GAB, it is a type of gravel composed of a crushed stone and stone dust mix that creates a tightly packed surface. It is commonly used for driveways, patios, walkways or as a foundation for other materials such as pavers or other surfacing materials. The surfacing was installed in August 2024 prior to the start of the 2024 Fall football season. Due to erosion, the surface is beginning to deteriorate. To provide a more stable surface, staff are requesting the installation of a 3” thick asphalt surface for bus parking.

On January 13, 2025, the Board approved contract renewal #1 of 4 for ITB 24-458 for Asphalt Paving, Striping, and Overlay to DAF Concrete, Inc. and Shepco Paving, Inc. in the amount not to exceed $2,500,000. as the most responsive and responsible vendor to provide Asphalt Paving, Striping, and Overlay Services.


DAF Concrete, Inc. is located at 9061 Turner Road, Jonesboro, Ga 30236

Shepco Paving, Inc. is located at 4080 McGinnis Ferry Road, Alpharetta, GA 30005.

Financial impact: The total project amount for these services is a not- to- exceed amount of $184,450 and will be allocated from the General Fund Budget, Deferred Maintenance.
(100.2600.543013.00011.7520.9990.8013.040.0000).

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678-676-1470
Mr. Bobby Moncrief, Director, Facilities Management, Division of Operations, 678.676.1478

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education (“the Board”) approve the contract award of ITB 24-446 to Darling Ingredients, Inc. for Grease Trap and Septic Tank Pumping Services not to exceed $1,000,000.

Details: The approval of this contract will allow the Facilities Department to provide pumping and cleaning services of grease traps and septic tanks throughout the DeKalb County School District (“DCSD”). Regular cleaning of grease traps is crucial for maintaining a healthy and efficient drainage system, preventing potential problems, and adhering to local regulations. Grease traps are designed to intercept fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater before it enters the sewer system, preventing blockages, odors, and potential health hazards.

Regular septic tank pumping is crucial for maintaining a healthy and functional septic system, preventing costly repairs and environmental damage. It removes accumulated sludge and solid waste, preventing backups, clogs, and system failures. This also helps protect the environment by reducing the risk of groundwater contamination.

An Invitation to Bid was posted to IonWave on June 6, 2024. On July 26, 2024, bids were received and reviewed from four (4) firms and three (3) deemed responsive to the requirements of the solicitation.

This recommendation is based on the review and evaluation of the three (3) responsive bids received. Darling Ingredients, Inc., was determined to be the lowest responsive bidder, meeting the requirements and criteria set forth in the ITB document. Darling Ingredients, Inc. will be responsible for providing grease trap and septic tank pumping services as set forth in the proposal documents.

Darling Ingredients, Inc., is located at 5076 Nifda Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30339

Financial impact: The total contract amount for these services in the amount not to exceed $1,000,000 will be allocated from the General Fund Budget, Deferred Maintenance, (100.2600.543000.00011.7520.9990.8013.040.0000)

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678-676-0168
Mr. Bobby Moncrief, Director of Facilities, Division of Operations, 678-676-1478

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education (“the Board”) approve grant of an easement to the Georgia Power Company for upgrades to electric distribution facilities at the Briarlake ES site for the capital improvement construction project.

Details: The purpose of this project is to install and maintain electrical and communication lines, poles, and equipment on the site. Georgia Power requests permission to maintain, repair and rebuild on all equipment including wires, transformers, and cables to strengthen the service to the Briarlake ES site off Lavista Road. Overhead lines in certain areas may be more prone to outages caused by trees contacting lines or vehicular collisions. Removing any trees and other obstructions to the lines and equipment will aid in providing the area with quality service. This easement request is aligned with the construction work at Briarlake ES to upgrade all HVAC systems equipment and improve the facility.

The property site is 3590 Lavista Rd, Atlanta, GA 30345 - Briarlake Elementary School. The area of the requested easement is defined as any portion of the property located within fifteen (15) feet of the centerline of the overhead distribution line(s) as installed in the approximate location shown on “Exhibit A”.

Financial impact: The easement will directly benefit the DeKalb County School District. The financial impact of the easement will be $10.00 paid by Georgia Power Company to the District. Funds will be allocated to the General Fund Charge Code.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1470
Mr. Hans G. Williams, Director of Planning & E-SPLOST Programming, Division of Operations, 678.676.1588

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education (“the Board”) approve the use of Convergint Technologies, LLC to provide an access control system, intrusion detection system and IP video surveillance for an amount not to exceed $298,473.

Details: The Park Lake Administrative Complex is in the process of preparation for occupancy by staff. DCSD desires to use Convergint Technologies, LLC to provide security products and installation.

The contract award to Convergint Technologies, LLC was approved by the Board on December 13, 2021.
Convergint Technologies, LLC has submitted a security proposal and scope of work addressing building core security.

Specific details related to the scope of work for this Proposal can be found in the ICN Proposal. This work includes:

(5) access control panels
(24) new card access doors
(2) monitored doors
(1) intrusion detection panel with remote power supply
(2) keypads
(52) intrusion detection motion detection sensors
(38) new cameras

Convergint Technologies, LLC is located at 1955 Evergreen Blvd., Duluth, GA 30096

Financial impact: The total amount for the contract to Convergint Technologies, LLC, not to exceed $298,473, will be allocated from the F300CIP.11330.GENCONTR Fund Code.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678-676-1376 
Ms. Natalie Terrell, Manager III, IT Project Management Office, Division of Information & Instructional Technology, 678-676-1163

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education (“the Board”) approve a resolution to request assistance from the Georgia Department of Education in developing the Five-Year Local Facilities Plan for the purpose of completing the Facilities Condition Assessment as part of the Comprehensive Master Plan Process (CMP).

Details: In accordance with Georgia law (20-2-260), all school systems are required to develop and maintain a Five-Year Local Facilities Plan (LFP) to be eligible to participate in Georgia's Capital Outlay Program for state reimbursement of capital projects.

Every five years, school districts qualify for this funding by completing two (2) major requirements:

Reporting the number of schools the District expects to operate in the five-year period and:
Developing a capital project scheduling plan for the same five-year period.


Each year, school districts must submit a Capital Outlay Application, listing the projects for which they will seek reimbursement for the year based on this plan.

DCSD would like to use the data from its upcoming Comprehensive Master Plan (CMP) to inform the DOE Local Facilities Plan. By using the data from the Comprehensive Master Plan (CMP), DCSD will have a DOE Local Facilities Plan that aligns with our future Comprehensive Master Plan (CMP).

Financial impact: No Direct Financial Impact to the District

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1470
Mr. Hans G. Williams, Director of Planning & Capital Improvement, Division of Operations, 678.676.1588

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Dr. Kermit Belcher, Chief Information Officer, Division of Information and Instructional Technology

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Elijah Palmer, Chief of Staff, Office of the Superintendent

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Byron Schueneman, Chief Financial Officer, Division of Finance

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept the May 2025 Monthly Financial Report.

Contact: Mr. Byron Schueneman, Chief Financial Officer, Division of Finance, Division of Finance, 678.676.0270

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Tasha Davis Mills, Chief Human Resources Officer, Division of Human Resources

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the July Human Resources Report.

Contact: Mrs. Tasha Davis Mills, Chief Human Resources Officer, Division of Human Resources, 678.676.1200.

Status: Attorney Approval is Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Tasha Davis Mills, Chief Human Resources Officer, Division of Human Resources

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education (“the Board”) approve the contract for EAP (Employee Assistance Program) Services to Health Advocate Solutions, Inc., in the not-to-exceed amount of $162,000.

Details: The Division of Human Resources is looking to hire an EAP counselor for the upcoming school year. The counselor will provide confidential, short-term, solution-focused individual consultations to the client's designated personnel at the primary location, aimed at assisting employees with emotional, family, personal, or work-related behavioral concerns. These consultations may include on-demand and scheduled counseling sessions in response to traumatic events, proactive one-on-one consultations, individual wellness activities, and wellness check-ins. Additionally, the counselor will coordinate and facilitate group sessions and activities in partnership with the Human Resources leadership team. Group consultations may encompass training and workshops on topics/content in line with the client's guidelines, group wellness activities, group wellbeing check-ins, group training, debriefing and onboarding sessions, as well as group creative interventions and practices. The expected timeline for the contract is August 2025 - August 2026.

Financial impact: Budgeted expense not to exceed $162,000.

Charge code: 100.2300.530000.7400.9990.8010.060.0000

Summary: Presented by: Champion Michelle Dillard, Chief of Schools & Leadership Division of Schools & Leadership

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the partnership with Relay Graduate School of Education to deliver School Improvement training, school-based coaching, instructional rounds, and executive leadership support for school leaders in DCSD’s Area 2, Area 3, and Horizon schools for FY26. The total amount requested for implementation and coaching support is $210,400.

Details: Relay’s scope of work includes:

Summer 2025 Leadership Institute: Four days of in-person training for up to 150 participants focused on:
Student culture
Observation and feedback
Weekly data meetings
Leadership planning (Strong Start Playbooks)
School-Based Coaching: Embedded coaching through:
Eight full days of on-site visits across four priority schools
64 hours of virtual coaching for selected leaders and PLCs
Instructional Rounds: Two days of walkthroughs and learning experiences for up to 15 leaders per site, conducted across 2-4 priority schools
Executive Coaching: 12 hours of virtual executive coaching for senior instructional leaders

Financial impact: The purchase amount not to exceed $210,400 will be paid using general funds budgeted by:

GL Account#
100.1000.511600.01211.8410.1031.8010.020.0000

Contact: Mrs. Michelle Dillard, Chief of Schools, Division of Schools & Leadership, 678-676-0542

Effective: July 30, 2025 - June 30, 2026

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the purchase of the 95 Phonics Core Program from 95 Percent Group to supplement existing English language arts instruction in an amount not to exceed $3,000,000. This standalone phonics program will support foundational reading skills development in kindergarten through fifth grade by strengthening direct instruction and practice of foundational skills aligned to structured literacy.

Details: Per the Georgia Early Literacy Act (House Bill 538), local school districts may purchase supplemental resources using the High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) Rubric. The HQIM Rubric includes the following components that must be considered when selecting supplemental materials to ensure alignment to foundational reading skills and science of reading:

Research Alignment



Explicit, Systematic, Cumulative, and Diagnostic Instruction



Related Elements (alignment to Georgia’s ELA standards and assessments)



Phonological and Phonemic Awareness



Phonics and Word Study



Text Reading and Fluency



Vocabulary



Listening comprehension and Reading Comprehension

The selection of the 95 Phonics Core Program followed a rigorous two-round review process: 


Round 1 (March 24, 2025): Four vendors presented their phonics programs in person. A total of 27 participants attended, including classroom teachers, academic coaches, and central office coordinators, directors, assistant superintendents, and chiefs. Participants provided structured feedback and posed questions regarding instructional design, alignment with curriculum, and support for differentiated instruction of each resource. 



Round 2 (May 1, 2025): Vendors addressed specific questions that arose in Round 1.



In accordance with Board Policy DJE (III.D.3.g.1-2), qualified personnel evaluated the four vendors using the components of the HQIM Rubric and selected 95 Phonics Core Program based on sound pedagogical judgment and in the best interest of the school district.

Financial impact: The total contract amount will not exceed $3,000,000.




100-1000-553200-00011-7580-9990-8010-035-0000
Communication-Web Subscription


100-2210-561000-00011-7580-9990-8010-035-0000
Supplies


100-1000-564000-00011-7580-9990-8010-035-0000
Digital/Electronic Textbooks


100-1000-564100-00011-7580-9990-8010-035-0000
Textbooks - Printed


100-1000-564200-00011-7580-9990-8010-035-0000
Books (Other)


100-2220-530000-00011-7580-9990-8010-035-0000
Purchased Professional/Technical Services

Contact: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-0731
Dr. Sean R. Tartt, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-0731
Dr. Penny Mosley, Assistant Superintendent K-5 Curriculum & Instruction, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-0137
Dr. Lynn Angus Ramos, Director, Literacy, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-0136
Mrs. Lummie Baker, Director, Educational Media and Instructional Materials, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-2421

Effective: July 15, 2025- June 30, 2026

Status: Approved by Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the award of Bid 25-519 Catalog Discount - Career Technical & Agricultural Materials, Equipment & Supplies to the following vendors: Amitrace Computer System, Carolina Biological Supply Company, Flinn Scientific Incorporated, Global Equipment Company, Incorporated, Learning Labs, Incorporated, LEGO Education Incorporated, NASCO Education LLC, Nisewonger Audio Visual Center, Incorporated, Paxton Patterson Incorporated, Sam Tell and Son Incorporated, and William J. Redmond and Son, Incorporated in an amount not to exceed $2,000,000.

Details: Bid 25-519 will provide access to a broad spectrum of Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) materials, equipment, and supplies that may be purchased at discounted prices from multiple vendors. The contract includes up to four, one-year extension options contingent upon DCSD’s offer to such extension, the successful offeror’s acceptance, and the approval of the DeKalb County Board of Education to extend the contract.
A formal Invitation to Bid Catalog Discounts - Career Technical & Agricultural Materials, Equipment & Supplies, was issued on Thursday, January 30, 2025, through the DCSD Purchasing Department. The solicitation was posted on the DCSD website. An electronic notification was sent to 53 vendors from the DCSD Vendor Bid List and 1257 vendors through the State of Georgia Procurement Registry. Responses to the solicitation were received on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 13 vendors. Eleven (11) vendors were deemed responsive to the solicitation requirements.

Financial impact: The total financial impact is an amount not to exceed $2,000,000.
Charge Codes:
100.1000.561000.00011.7940.3011.8010.035.0000
100.1000.561100.00011.7940.3011.8010.035.0000
100.1000.530000.00011.7940.3011.8010.035.0000
100.1000.530000.42121.7940.3550.8010.035.0000
100.1000.573000.00011.7940.3011.8010.035.0000
100.1000.561500.00011.7940.3011.8010.035.0000
100.1000.561600.00011.7940.3011.8010.035.0000
406.1000.530000.38321.7940.3324.8010.035.2025
406.1000.561000.38321.7940.3324.8010.035.2025
406.1000.561100.38321.7940.3324.8010.035.2025
406.1000.561500.38321.7940.3324.8010.035.2025
406.1000.561600.38321.7940.3324.8010.035.2025
406.1000.573000.38321.7940.3324.8010.035.2025
406.2230.561000.38321.7940.3324.8010.035.2025
406.2300.530000.38321.7940.3324.8010.035.2025

Contact: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0731
Dr. Sean R. Tartt, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0731
Dr. Rose Prejean-Harris, Assistant Superintendent (6-12), Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0137
Mrs. Doryiane Gunter, Director, Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0451

Effective: July 15, 2025 - June 30, 2026

Status: Approved by Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Curriculum & Instruction

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the purchase of a districtwide license for Apex learning courses from Edmentum at a cost not to exceed $538,052.07.

Details: Edmentum provides content efficacy to address diverse student needs, promote on-time graduation, and prepare each student for college and work. The digital content can be used to enhance online learning for students through synchronous and asynchronous instruction. This content:


Creates equitable opportunities for students to access quality digital content.
Supports the school district's Board-approved curriculum.
Provides the ability to personalize learning for learners.
Provides a complete course of study that offers active learning, standards coverage, and depth of instruction.
Provides progress monitoring.
Provides integrated formative and summative assessments.

Pursuant to Board Policy DJE (III.D.3.g.2), the purchase of Edmentum’s Apex learning courses does not require a competitive bid because it meets the policy definition of supplemental resources needed for instruction. In addition, Edmentum’s Apex learning courses were evaluated and selected by qualified professional personnel based on sound pedagogical judgment and in the school district’s best interest.

Financial impact: The Financial impact is $538,052.07 to purchase a districtwide license.

General Funds: 100.1000.561200.00011.6020.1041.6013.035.0000




Edmentum Cost Summary



Year
Cost


2021-2022
$472,500.00


2022-2023
$403,296.00 *


2023-2024
$557,270.26


2024-2025
$590, 179.44


2025-2026
$538, 052.07









*Note: High school content was purchased, and middle school content was added mid-year.

Contact: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0731
Dr. Sean R. Tartt, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0731
Dr. Rose Prejean-Harris, Assistant Superintendent (6-12), Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0137
Ms. Keatra Wright, Director of FLEX Academy, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.4141

Effective: July 15, 2025 - June 30, 2026

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Curriculum & Instruction

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the Memorandum of Agreement between the Acceleration Academies and the DeKalb County School District to serve up to 300 students in an amount not to exceed $3,000,000.

Details: Acceleration Academies will operate a physical Academy site in Tucker, Georgia and a satellite site at McNair High School to serve students 16-21 years of age. These students will be identified via recruitment efforts of currently withdrawn students as well as direct referrals of active but credit-deficient, at-risk students by their principals or guidance counselors. Acceleration Academies will support as many students as possible; therefore, the Enrollment Marketing Team will utilize a multitude of marketing techniques to find, inform, recruit, and retain students.

Currently, the Acceleration Academy at McNair High School is serving 76 graduation candidates. At this time, 121 courses have been completed, and 60.5 Carnegie units have been earned by graduation candidates.

Financial impact: The method of compensation in this MOA will be payments in an amount not to exceed $3,000,000 to be paid to Acceleration Academies in accordance with the Memorandum of Agreement from general funds.

Students enrolled during the state count period will generate per pupil funding for the District. For every eligible student enrolled in the program 15 days or more, Acceleration Academies will bill the District a base of $600 per month for each student plus applicable supplemental funding for special education and ESOL services. For every eligible student enrolled in the program less than 15 days, Acceleration Academies will bill the District a daily rate of $20 per day for each student plus applicable prorated supplemental funding for special education and ESOL services.

Cost Code: 100.2210.530000.00011.7210.9990.8010.035.0000








2024-2025 Acceleration Academies Monthly Expenses


Month
Invoice Number
Invoice Amount
Number of Graduation Candidates


December 2024
1434
$6,600.00
11


January 2025
1464
$21,819.27
33


February 2025
1540
$34,038.54
56


March 2025
1541
$35,165.45
58


April 2025
1622
$43,565.45
72


May 2025
1723
$49,638.54
76


June 2025

Pending



Total Spent as of June 11, 2025

$190,827.25

Contact: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0731
Dr. Sean R. Tartt, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0731
Dr. Rose Prejean-Harris, Assistant Superintendent (6-12), Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0137

Effective: July 15, 2025 - June 30, 2026

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum and Instruction, 678.676.0731

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve ID3 Group LLC to provide services for hardware, software, resources, materials, equipment, fabrication, design, and installation at Fernbank Science Center as outlined in the subaward agreement with DeKalb County in an amount not to exceed $175,000.

Details: ID3 Group LLC’s scope of work includes interactive panels, instructional software and hardware, scientific exhibits, technology, and educational content.

Interactive Instructional Panels: These panels can provide hands-on learning experiences for students, allowing them to interact with scientific concepts in a tangible way. They promote engagement, curiosity, and inquiry by allowing students to explore and experiment.

Instructional Software and Hardware: The instructional software and hardware offer immersive experiences that stimulate curiosity and enhance interest in STEAM - science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Students can explore in a visually captivating manner, fostering a sense of wonder and excitement.

Instructional Science/STEAM Exhibits and Content: The exhibits provide opportunities for students to engage with real-world phenomena and principles. These exhibits can deepen understanding and encourage inquiry-based learning as students explore and investigate science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

Instructional Technology/Educational Content Development Services: These services support the creation of engaging and relevant educational content tailored to the needs of students and teachers. By providing access to high-quality and rigorous instructional materials and professional development opportunities, these resources and technology updates will help enhance teacher and student knowledge while providing access to tangible and visible resources to support continuous learning.

Financial impact: The total contract amount will not exceed $175,000.
Charge Code: 484.0000.445350.05318.6600.9990.6010.035.2025.




Vendor: ID3 Group LLC
Amount
Purpose


Design Services
$8,500.00
Design of Pathway to Innovation Exhibit


Fabrication
$142,191.00
Fabrication of Pathway to Innovation Exhibit



Installation
$24,309.00
Installation of all fabricated elements


Project Total
175,000.00

Contact: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum and Instruction, 678.676.0731
Dr. Sean R. Tartt, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum and Instruction, 678.676.0731
Mrs. Janetta Greenwood, Director, Fernbank Science Center, 678.874.7119

Effective: July 15, 2025 - June 30, 2026

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum and Instruction, 678.676.0731

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the Memorandum of Understanding with the Georgia Aquarium, Incorporated, so students have access to experiential and relevant learning opportunities that expand their background knowledge in science, other core content areas, and career and post-secondary opportunities in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in an amount not to exceed $418,000.

Details: The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) sets forth the terms and understanding between the DeKalb County School District and Georgia Aquarium, Incorporated. The goals of the partnership are as follows:

To develop K-12 career exploration opportunities in the fields of marine biology and ocean science to increase representation of students from DeKalb County School District,
To accelerate learning and bridge gaps in knowledge and understanding through real world enrichment opportunities as it relates to science and other core content areas,
To support improving student outcomes as it pertains to standards-based local, state, and national summative assessments,
To increase teacher’s professional knowledge as it relates to marine, ocean, and environmental sciences to support integration and application of the core content areas,
To increase Georgia Aquarium’s program accessibility and outreach for parents and students in grades K-12,
To increase student’s knowledge of aquaculture to raise awareness in local and global environmental sustainability efforts,
To develop a more cohesive path for K-12 students to engage in meaningful instruction, using sustained multipoint contacts to create a continuous path into STEM/marine science careers, and
To instill an understanding of and passion for aquatic animals and their habitats by increasing awareness and abilities for students to pursue careers in aquatic fields.

Financial impact: The total contract amount will not exceed $418,000.
The general budget charge codes are as follows:
100.1000.530000.00011.6600.9990.6010.035.0000
100.1000.561000.00011.6600.9990.6010.035.0000

Contact: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum and Instruction, 678.676.0731
Dr. Sean R. Tartt, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum and Instruction, 678.676.0731
Mrs. Janetta Greenwood, Director, Fernbank Science Center, Division of Curriculum and Instruction, 678.874.7119

Effective: August 1, 2025 - June 30, 2026

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum and Instruction

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the purchase of Amira Tutor, a high-dosage, research-based tutoring program to support foundational reading skills, fluency, and reading comprehension development in kindergarten through third grade, in an amount not to exceed $600,000.

Details: Amira ISIP provides a comprehensive and culturally responsive assessment system that evaluates key early literacy components such as phonological awareness, decoding, fluency, and comprehension-many of which can be completed in 15-20 minutes. The voice-enabled technology listens as students read aloud, detects errors with high reliability and validity, and generates actionable data reports that support differentiated instruction and early identification of reading difficulties, including dyslexia risk.

Amira acts in three essential roles: a dyslexia screener and diagnostic tool, a skilled instructional assistant, and a personalized reading coach. These roles are particularly valuable for early learners who benefit from responsive, individualized practice grounded in the science of reading.

For educators, Amira Tutor enhances classroom efficiency by allowing small group, whole group, or individual support by delivering immediate feedback through an AI-powered 1:1 tutor. For students, Amira Tutor fosters independence and engagement through interactive read-aloud experiences and real-time positive reinforcement. This tool is especially effective for supporting diverse learners thanks to its universal design features and multilingual sensitivity.

Overall, Amira Tutor empowers K-3 teachers with the data and tools needed to deliver responsive instruction, monitor progress, and close early literacy gaps, making it an asset in building foundational reading proficiency across all student groups. The selection of the Amira Tutor followed a two-round review process:


Round 1 (March 17, 2025): The five GADOE approved vendors presented their universal reading and dyslexia screener in person. A total of 15 participants attended, including central office coordinators, directors, assistant superintendents, and chiefs. Participants provided structured feedback and posed questions regarding instructional design, alignment with science of reading, and support for differentiated instruction of each resource.



Round 2 (April 3, 2025): Vendors addressed specific questions that arose in Round 1.

Financial impact: The total contract amount will not exceed $600,000.




120.2100.553200.26021.7210.1613.8010.035.2025
GEER II Dyslexia
Communication-Web Subscription


100-1000-553200-00011-7580-9990-8010-035-000
Communication-Web Subscription


100-2220-530000-00011-7580-9990-8010-035-0000
Purchased Professional/Technical Services

Contact: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-0731
Dr. Sean R. Tartt, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-0731
Dr. Penny Mosley, Assistant Superintendent K-5 Curriculum & Instruction, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-0137
Dr. Lynn Angus Ramos, Director, Literacy, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-0136
Mrs. Lummie Baker, Director, Educational Media and Instructional Materials, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678-676-2421

Effective: July 15, 2025- June 30, 2026

Status: Approved by Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Kishia K. Towns, Ph.D., Chief of Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services, 678-676-1079

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the contract extensions of RFP 21-522R1 with the following seven vendors: Cobb Pediatrics (DBA Stepping Stones), Comprehensive Behavior Change, Kadiant, and Southern Behavior Group, as the most responsive and responsible bidders to provide behavior intervention services for an amount not to exceed the $1,000,000.

Details: The request for proposals for RFP 21-522R1 was issued October 27, 2020, with responses reviewed through January 2021. The approved DCSD RFP process was followed. During the 24-25 SY, seven (7) selected vendors were approved to provide services. For the 25-26 SY, four (4) vendors have completed and signed the acceptance letter. The four (4) selected vendors are as follows: Cobb Pediatrics (DBA Stepping Stones), Comprehensive Behavior Change, Kadiant, and Southern Behavior Group.
No single company has been able to provide a sufficient number of specialized behavioral support, including BCBAs to cover students’ needs. The initial contract was executed and included four (4) one (1) year contract extension options contingent upon DCSD’s offer to such extension, the successful offeror’s acceptance and the approval of the DeKalb County Board of Education to extend the contract.

Financial impact: The contract amount from the general budget will be $500,000 (Charge code: 100.2100.530000.00011.7340.2021.8010.094.0000) and $500,000 from IDEA federal dollars (Charge code: 404.2100.530000.05021.7340.2824.8010.094.2026). The financial impact is contingent upon the number of students that require specialized support as well as the number of BCBAs provided by each contracted vendor. The current rate for these services is on average $150.00 per hour.

Contact: Dr. Norman Sauce, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services, 678-676-1079
Mrs. Kiana King, Executive Director of Exceptional Education, Division of Student Services, 678-676-1809

Effective: July 7, 2025 - July 6, 2026

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education approve the contractual agreement between the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) and Laurel Heights Hospital (LHH) in an amount not to exceed $493,097.

Details: Pursuant to the agreement between The DeKalb County School District and Laurel Heights Hospital, the District ensures that all students with disabilities receiving educational services within Laurel Heights Hospital receive a Free and Appropriate Public Education. The District extends opportunities for Laurel Heights teachers and staff to participate in district staff development and provides technical assistance/oversight through a district Lead Teacher for Special Education (LTSE) to ensure completion of eligibility determinations, triennial reviews, IEP development, and IEP implementation. Additionally, the District provides access to state assessments for eligible students and assessment training for the identified Laurel Heights Test Coordinator.
As the fiscal agent for Laurel Heights Hospital (LHH), the District is responsible for oversight of all grant budgets, amendments, and reimbursement requests. There is no cost incurred by DCSD. The District collaborates with LHH to develop an appropriate budget in accordance with the Local Unit of Administration (LUA) Chart of Accounts for submission to the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE). The District is responsible for submission of the budget for approval by the GaDOE through the GaDOE’s Consolidated Application. The Superintendent must sign off on assurances through the Consolidated Application ensuring that they have collaborated with the residential facility in developing the budget. The District is responsible for approving and submitting reimbursement requests through the Grants Accounting Online (GAORS). The following table outlines how funds have been expended for the last 12 years, and how LHH intends to use the funds for this fiscal year.

Funds are expended based on direct costs incurred for activities directly associated with the education of eligible children such as, salaries, wages and benefits for teachers and paraprofessionals; costs for instructional materials and supplies; costs associated with classroom-related activities and equipment; and any other appropriate instructional expenses. Indirect costs such as cost incurred for administration, plant operations and maintenance, food services, transportation, instructional support including media centers, teacher training, and student support such as nurses and guidance counselors.

Financial impact: There is No Financial Impact to the District.

Contact: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services, 678.676.1079,
Mrs. Kiana King, Executive Director of Exceptional Education, Division of Student Services, 678.676.1809

Effective: July 7, 2025 - July 6, 2026

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the purchase of professional translation and interpretation services from the following vendors in excess of $100,000.00 with a combined total not to exceed $1,300,000 for the following vendors:

ALTA Language Services
Language Line Services
LATN Language Solutions
Piedmont Global Language Service
Real Time Translation
SeSo, Inc.
Translation Station, Inc.
Zab Translation Solutions

Details: The DeKalb County School District, as a local educational agency (LEA) receiving federal grants, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) grants, has a legal obligation to maintain meaningful communication with parents and students who may not have English as their primary language. The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and IDEA mandate that parental notices and communication must be in a language that the parents or guardians can understand. Services from approved agencies are included in the district’s agreement with the OCR to provide language support services to families and students who speak other languages. Additionally, interpretation services are required during Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings.

The continuous increase in families and students who speak other languages has resulted in a higher demand for translation and interpretation services. Communication with the parents and guardians of these students is crucial for their academic performance. The DeKalb County School District currently serves over 28,306 students whose primary home language is other than English (PHLOTEs). The significant number of languages and dialects, 178, spoken by our community requires the use of several resources to ensure effective communication with all students and parents. Interpretation and translation services to communicate with students and parents are necessary to ensure access to all our services and programs.

According to DJE III(C)(4), multiple vendors are used based on professional ability to provide translation/interpretation services in the requested languages district-wide for all schools.

Financial impact: The Financial Impact to the general funds for the school year 2025-2026 will not exceed the amount of $1,300,000.
Department of English Learners Charge Code:
100.2100 530000.07711.7130.9990.6015.094.0000 ($805.000)
Department of Exceptional Education Charge Code: 100.1000.530000.00011.7340.2021.8010.094.0000($400,000)
100.1000.530000.22711.7320.9990.8010.094.0000($50,000)

Contact: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services
Dr. Evelyn Hall, Executive Director of English Learners Department, Division of Student Services, 678-676-6603
Mrs. Kiana King, Executive Director, Exceptional Education, Division of Student Services, 678-676-61885

Effective: July 14, 2025- July 13, 2026

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Norman Sauce, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education approve the contract renewal between MRESA and MEGLRS for the SY26 school year for an amount not to exceed $240,000.

Details: MRESA is a state agency which provides professional development throughout the Metropolitan Atlanta Area through shared resources. MEGLRS is a part of a network of 17 regional programs that provide training and resources to school district personnel, parents of students with disabilities, and other interested individuals to support the achievement, graduation rate, and post-secondary success of students with disabilities. The MEGLRS network is funded by the Georgia Department of Education, Divisions for Special Education Services and Supports, and are operated in collaboration with Regional Educational Service Agencies (RESA’s) or a local school district that serves as a fiscal agent. MEGLRS is funded entirely with federal discretionary funds made available by the state through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA). There is an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOA) between the Georgia Department of Education and DeKalb County School District (DCSD) in which DCSD serves as the fiscal agent for MEGLRS.

Under this agreement, on an as needed basis, MRESA will provide MEGLRS with the following professional services in accordance with the assurances and activities described in the MEGLRS Grant Application:

Two part time New Teacher Induction Specialists to provide professional learning and coaching for special education teachers with 1-3 years of service.
Two part time Project Facilitators to design and provide professional learning to general and special education teachers and administrators regarding identified areas of need which could include such topics as the implementation of the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), improving post-secondary outcomes for students with disabilities, and increasing the achievement and graduation rate of students with disabilities.
One Contractor to provide a single event, the Spring Legal Conference where special education administrators are provided updates on case law that is relevant to the implementation of IDEA.


During the 2024-2025 school year, the following topics were addressed by the existing New Teacher Induction Specialist and the Project Facilitators

New Teacher Induction - New Teacher Coaching Support
Social Emotional High Leverage Practices - Train the Trainer model
Check and Connect
Functional Behavioral Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans
Mindset
Behavior Support
Understanding the Autistic Child
Structured Literacy
De-escalation Strategies for Paraprofessionals
Specially Designed Instruction - Train the Trainer model
AI Tools for Teachers
Restorative Practices
Structured Literacy

Based on current requests for training in the metro districts, in addition to the above topics, the following trainings will be added for the 2025-2026 school year:


Increased New Teacher Coaching Support
Understanding the Psychological Evaluation
AI in the Classroom
Action Planning

Financial impact: The contracted amount of $240,000 will be paid to MRESA by MEGLRS using funds allocated through 530.2210.530000.05721.7340.2712.8010.094.2025. As the fiscal agent for MEGLRS, the DeKalb County School District will be compensated through payments by the Georgia Department of Education upon submission of documented allowable disbursements, plus documentation of completion of specific performance objectives.
There is no financial impact on the DeKalb County School District.

Contact: Dr. Norman C Sauce, III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services, 678-676-1079
Mrs. Kiana King, Executive Director of Exceptional Education, Division of Student Services, 678-676-1809
Ms. Terri Jenkins, Director, Georgia Learning Resources Center, Division of Student Services, 678.676.2413

Effective: July 1, 2025

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Resources

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the purchase of supplemental instructional resources and materials for the English Learners Department in an amount not to exceed $­­1,400,000.

Details: The DeKalb County School District will purchase supplemental instructional resources and materials to support the academic success of English Learners served through the Division of Student Services (English Learners Department) in accordance with Board Policy DJE (III.D.3.g).

Financial impact: The total financial impact for SY2025-2026 is not to exceed the amount of $1,400,000.

Title III Funds and general funds will be used to purchase these resources.
Charge codes:
460.1000.553200.07221.7130.1816.6015.094.2025
100.1000.553200.07711.7130.1353.6015.094.0000

Contact: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services
Dr. Evelyn Hall, Executive Director of English Learners Department, Division of Student Services

Effective: July 14, 2025- July 13, 2026

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Candace Alexander, Chief, Accountability & Research, Division of Accountability & Research

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the renewal of Renaissance in an amount not to exceed $750,000 for SY 2025-2026.
The requested purchase is a testing expenditure that does not require bid per the District’s Purchasing Board Policy (DJE).

Details: This proposed budget item is requesting funds not to exceed $750,000 to cover the costs associated with the purchase of the Renaissance Assessment Platform and professional learning services.
Through the Assessment platform, DCSD K-12 educators will have access to over 100,000 Formative, Common, and Benchmark assessment items. The test items have the following attributes:


Aligned to Georgia Standards of Excellence in all four content areas: English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies
Multiple item types - selected response, constructed response and extended response (which simulates the GADOE Milestones Assessments)
Flexible delivery - items in Microsoft Office Word; passages in PDF; and images in JPEG
Varying levels of complexity- Depth of Knowledge: DOK 1 - 20%, DOK 2 - 60% and DOK 3 - 20%
English Language Arts items will be associated with passages that reflect readability and text complexity appropriate to the grade level.

The Renaissance platform includes the following features necessary to administer required formative, common, and benchmark assessments in tandem with DeKalb’s curriculum:


Document camera scanning for easy and instant assessment scoring
Traditional and standard-based grade books and report cards
Online testing, proctoring, monitoring, and dashboards to provide instant performance feedback
Reporting that provides the big picture around effective instructional practices, direction for differentiated instruction, and item analysis to pinpoint student misconceptions
The online portal allows digital access to students and parents to get real-time performance feedback


Usage Data SY2022-SY2025




Level
# of Assessments Created

# of Assessments Created

# of
Assessments Created

# of
Assessments Created


2021-2022
2022-2023
2023-2024
2024-2025*


Elementary
30,298
30,526
28,571
99,455


Middle
10,550
10,555
10,374
24,321


High
15,284
14,069
14,235
35,418



*The assessments include District benchmark assessments, common formative assessments, and summative assessments created by teachers, administrators, content coordinators, academic coaches, and MTSS teams.

Financial impact: The purchase amount will be paid using general funds budgeted to the Division of Accountability and Research, Department of Assessment Administration, charge code: 100.2210.553200.00011.7540.9990.8010.030.0000

Contact: Dr. Candace Alexander, Chief of Accountability & Research, Division of Accountability & Research, 678.676.0300
Dr. Felicia G. Rhone, Director of Assessment Administration, Division of Accountability & Research, 678.676.0300

Effective: September 2, 2025

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Candace Alexander, Chief, Accountability & Research, Division of Accountability & Research

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the renewal of the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Assessment for the 2025-2026 school year in an amount not to exceed $2,100,000.

The requested purchase is an assessment expenditure that does not require bid per the District’s Purchasing Board Policy (DJE).

Details: This proposed budget item is requesting funds not to exceed $2,100,000 to cover the costs associated with the District renewal of the NWEA MAP assessment system and professional learning services.

NWEA Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) is a suite of assessments that deliver data to make a difference in student progress. MAP Growth measures areas related to the Georgia Standards of Excellence in RIT (Rausch Unit) scores. As a result, educators can easily measure growth in learning through the school year, and from year-to-year in Reading, Math, Language Usage, and Science, which also affords educators the capability to differentiate instruction based on the tool’s functionalities. The tool is built on one of the most robust normative scales in the United States.

MAP assessments are computer-adaptive tests that increase in rigor as students answer items, correctly. When a student incorrectly answers a question, the test becomes less difficult to match the next test item with the student’s academic aptitude. Therefore, a student takes an assessment created explicitly for his or her learning level. In addition, MAP Skills provides each student with his/her own specific learning path that identifies skill gaps and provides activities to help students master specific foundational skills.

Financial impact: The financial impact is an amount, not to exceed, $2,100,000 for FY26. The purchase amount will be paid using general funds budgeted to the Division of Accountability and Research’s Department of Assessment Administration charge code:100.1000.530010.00011.7540.9990.8010.030.0000
Division of Curriculum and Instruction and charge code: 100.2210.530000.00011.7480.9990.8010.035.0000
Federal Programs charge code: 414.2213.530000.37821.7590.1784.8010.030.2026

Contact: Dr. Candace Alexander, Chief, Accountability & Research, Division of Accountability & Research, 678-676-0300
Dr. Felicia G. Rhone, Director, Assessment Administration, Accountability & Research, 678-676-0300

Effective: August 2025

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Yolanda Williamson, Chief of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, Division of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept the donation of $82,539 from the Kittredge Magnet School Foundation as a one-time donation per Board Policy DFK “Gifts and Bequests Guidelines”.

Details: Kittredge Magnet School for High Achievers School is requesting approval to accept their one-time donation of $82,539 for the cost of materials, delivery, and construction of playground sunshade cover structures.

The DeKalb County School District Operations Division has worked with the Kittredge Magnet School for High Achievers School administration and Kittredge Magnet School Foundation to ensure these improvements meet all design and construction standards and guidelines. Also, general contractor Playpower/Playworx RFP #010521 for playground equipment repairs, replacements, and outdoor equipment installation services district wide.

Financial impact: The agreement would require a one-time donation of $82,539 that will be provided by Kittredge Magnet School Foundation.

Contact: Dr. Yolanda Williamson, Chief of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, Division of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, 678-676-0898

Effective: July 2025

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Yolanda Williamson, Chief of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, Division of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept the donation of $60,000 from the Oak Grove Foundation as a one-time donation per Board Policy DFK “Gifts and Bequests Guidelines”.

Details: Oak Grove Elementary School is requesting approval to accept their one-time donation of $60,000 for the cost of materials, delivery, and installation of artificial turf in the existing playground area.

The DeKalb County School District Operations Division has worked with the Oak Grove Elementary School administration and the Oak Grove Foundation to ensure these improvements meet all design and construction standards and guidelines.

Financial impact: The agreement would require a one-time donation of $60,000 that will be provided by Oak Grove Foundation.

Contact: Dr. Yolanda Williamson, Chief of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, Division of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, 678-676-0898

Effective: July 2025

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. H. Eric Hilton, Chief Legal Officer, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the renewal of the Insurance Producer Services for Property and Casualty Insurance Agreement with Edgewood Partners Insurance Center d/b/a EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants (“Epic”) for an annual fee not to exceed $150,000.

Details: In March of 2017, the DeKalb County Board of Education (“Board”) approved Epic as the District’s sole insurance producer through the RFQ process. From March of 2017, until June of 2022, Epic provided good insurance producer and consulting services to the District’s Risk Management Department. From June of 2022, until August of 2022, the District utilized the services of another insurance producer. However, at its business meeting on August 10, 2022, the Board approved an Insurance Producer Services for Property and Casualty Insurance Agreement with Epic, for an annual fee not to exceed $150,000.00. This agreement was pursuant to RFP 22-490, entitled Insurance Producer Services for Property and Casualty Insurance.

At its business meeting on July 10, 2023, the Board renewed its contract with Epic. Again, at its business meeting held on August 12, 2024, the Board renewed its contract with Epic. A renewal of the Epic contract is recommended by the District’s Risk Management Department. Epic is a qualified insurance broker dedicated to servicing all the District’s insurance needs. This includes, but is not limited to, helping with the District’s annual insurance renewal procedures for its insurance policies as well as providing guidance when losses occur, when recommendations are needed related to new lines of insurance coverage, and when claims must be filed.

Financial impact: This is a budgeted expense within the Risk Management budget. The cost code is 100.2600.552000.00011.7490.9990.8010.080.0000. The amount of this expense is $150,000.

Contact: Mr. H. Eric Hilton, Chief Legal Officer, Division of Legal Services, 678-676-0159

Mr. Glinton R. Darien, Jr., Director of Risk Management, Division of Legal Services, 678-676-0403

Effective: August 30, 2025

Status: General Counsel Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Employee Relations, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education adopt the proposed revisions to Board Policy BHA: Board Member Conflict of Interest.

Details: Board Policy BHA: Board Member Conflict of Interest has been presented and reviewed by the Board Policy Committee. The Policy Review Committee recommended the proposed revisions.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact

Contact: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Employee Relations, Division of Legal Services

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Employee Relations, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education adopt the proposed version of Board Policy BBD: Board-School Superintendent Relations.

Details: Board Policy BBD: Board- School Superintendent Relations was presented to and reviewed by the Board Policy Committee. The Policy Review Committee recommended creation of this policy.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact

Contact: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Employee Relations, Division of Legal Services

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Employee Relations, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept the recommendation to rescind Board Policy CEI: Superintendent Evaluation.

Details: The rescission of Board Policy CEI: Superintendent Evaluation was presented and reviewed by the Board Policy Committee. The Policy Review Committee recommended rescinding this policy.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact

Contact: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Employee Relations, Division of Legal Services

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb Board of Education accept the proposed version of Board Policy GAE: Complaints and Grievances lay on the table at the July 14, 2025, Board Meeting for stakeholder feedback until July 24, 2025, and be considered for adoption at a future Board Meeting.

Details: Board Policy GAE: Complaints and Grievances was presented to and reviewed by the Board Policy Committee. The Policy Review Committee recommended creation of this policy.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact

Contact: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director, Division of Legal Services, 678.676.0105

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that Board of Education allow Policy GAE (2): Complaints and Grievances, Certified Employees lay on the table at the July 14, 2025, Board Meeting for stakeholder feedback until July 24, 2025, and be considered for recission at a future Board Meeting.

Details: The recommended rescission of Board Policy GAE (2): Complaints and Grievances, Certified Employees was presented to and reviewed by the Board Policy Committee. The Policy Review Committee recommends the rescission of this policy.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact

Contact: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director, Division of Legal Services, 678.676.0105

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that Board of Education allow Board Policy GAE (3): Complaints and Grievances, Non-Certified Employees lay on the table at the July 14, 2025, Board Meeting for stakeholder feedback until July 24, 2025, and be considered for recission at a future Board Meeting.

Details: The recommended rescission of Board Policy GAE (3): Complaints and Grievances, Non-Certified Employees was presented to and reviewed by the Board Policy Committee. The Policy Review Committee recommends the recission of this policy.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact

Contact: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director, Division of Legal Services, 678.676.0105

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Convened by: Mrs. Deirdre P. Pierce, Board Chair

It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education convene the July 14, 2025, business meeting.

Motion by: _________________
Seconded by: ________________
Vote: ____________

Summary: Convened by: Mrs. Deirdre P. Pierce, Board Chair

*Speakers
1. Dr. Subrena Glenn
2. Michael Samuels
3. Esco Eats
4. Candice Roach
5. Deborah Jones
6. Sally Stanhope
7. Michael Green

Summary: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education approve the July 14, 2025, consent agenda items.

Motion by: _____________
Seconded by: ___________
Vote: _______

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Deirdre P. Pierce, Board Chair

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Deirdre P. Pierce, Board Chair

Summary: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education adjourn the July 14, 2025, work session and business meeting.
Motion by: ____________
Seconded by: __________
Vote: _____